Texas food bank gets $10.6 million stimulus grant…

The Capital Area food Bank of Texas received a $10.6 million stimulus grant to provide food for 100,000 households in 21 counties in Central Texas from June through September, The Austin-American Statesman reported June 26 (see Food Bank story). Eligibility screenings will take place at the food bank throughout the summer.

Would be volunteers should do homework before choosing charity

Prior to volunteering, individuals should research nonprofits’ financial health using online resources such as GuideStar.org, CharityNavigator.org and the Better Business Bureau, The Wall Street Journal reported June 27 (see charity vetting story). Would be volunteers also should ask how their participation will further a charity’s mission.

Panera introduces nonprofit location in St. Louis

Panera Co. has opened its first nonprofit location in St. Louis, where customers are invited to pay the menu price, or more, with proceeds will help cash-strapped customers get a free meal, The Associated Press reported June 25 (see Panera story). The experiment is going well, the company says, and the chain plans to open two more nonprofit restaurants in the near future.